A 360-degree product image is a visual representation of a product that allows customers to view it from all angles, just like a 360-degree image or panorama. These images provide a comprehensive and interactive view of a product, allowing potential buyers to examine it closely, rotate it, and get a better sense of its design, features, and overall appearance.
What are 360-Degree Images?
360-degree images, or panoramic or immersive images, are photographs or graphical representations that capture a complete view of a scene or environment in all directions, horizontally and sometimes vertically. These images aim to provide viewers with a comprehensive and immersive visual experience as if they were standing at the center of the scene and able to look in any direction.
Why do We Need a 360-Degree Image Preview?
When products are presented in 360-degree forms, more attention is generated and potential customers are invited to spin and engage with the object from all sides, which often results in higher trust and sales.
An interactive experience is offered through Amazon 360. The most effective and elegant approach to photographing products is with 360-degree imaging and product spin, which also gives customers the full product information and process control they now want.
What are Amazon’s 360-Degree Spin Image Requirements?
In order to enjoy the 360-degree feature, your spins must comply with Amazon’s Product Image Requirements. Here are the general guidelines that were applicable as of my last update:
- File Format: Amazon typically requires 360-degree spin images to be in JPEG or PNG format.
- Image Dimensions: The recommended image dimensions for 360-degree spin images are 2,000 pixels by 2,000 pixels.
- Image Sequence: The image sequence should follow a clockwise order, starting with the default view (front-facing) and then rotating the product 360 degrees in a continuous loop. Must submit 2-10 images. Amazon generally recommends using a minimum of 24 images in the sequence.
- Frame Rate: The recommended frame rate for a 360-degree spin image is 15 frames per second (fps).
- Background: The background of your 360-degree spin images should be pure white (#FFFFFF) and free from any logos, text, watermarks, or other distractions.
- Product Placement: The product should be centered in the frame and fill at least 85% of the image area.
- File Size: Each individual image file should not exceed 1 MB in size.
- Spinning Speed: The product should rotate smoothly and consistently at a speed that allows customers to examine it thoroughly but not too fast that it becomes difficult to view.
- Aspect Ratio: Maintain a 1:1 aspect ratio for your spin images (square format).
- Compression: Avoid excessive compression, as it can result in a loss of image quality.
- Hosting: Amazon may offer image hosting services for 360-degree spin images. You can also host the images on your own server or use third-party hosting solutions.
- Testing: Before submitting your 360-degree spin images, it’s a good practice to test them to ensure they work correctly and smoothly.
Remember that Amazon’s requirements and guidelines may change, so always refer to their official documentation or Seller Central for the most current information. Additionally, Amazon may have specific requirements and recommendations for different product categories, so make sure to comply with any category-specific guidelines as well.
Who has Access to a 360-Degree Product Image?
Within certain of the chosen categories, a 360-degree product visual preview is only available to Vendor Central.
When Amazon employees had to figure out how to offer the new functionality to the millions of marketplace vendors, they encountered technical and quality problems. Because of this, Amazon started with a controlled launch of the feature to a small number of vendors in order to better manage the introduction. The outcomes thus far have been extremely amazing, and it is now 2021. Following a successful testing phase, Amazon began offering a 360-degree view option to a large number of sellers across numerous product categories.
Benefits of 360-Degree Imagery on Amazon
The benefits of having a 360-degree product video on your Amazon listing or any e-commerce platform are numerous:
- Enhanced Product Presentation: 360-degree product videos provide a more detailed and immersive view of your product compared to static images. This can help potential customers better understand the product’s size, shape, and design.
- Improved Customer Confidence: When customers can view a product from all angles, they are less likely to have doubts or concerns about its appearance. This increased confidence can lead to higher conversion rates and lower return rates.
- Reduced Buyer Uncertainty: Shoppers often rely on visual information to make purchasing decisions. A 360-degree product video reduces uncertainty by providing a more complete picture of the item, helping customers make informed choices.
- Increased Engagement: Interactive content like 360-degree videos tends to engage customers more effectively than static images. Shoppers are more likely to spend time exploring the product, which can lead to higher retention rates on your product page.
- Competitive Advantage: Offering 360-degree product videos can set your listings apart from competitors who only provide static images. It demonstrates a commitment to providing a superior shopping experience.
- Better Product Understanding: Some products may have complex features or multiple components. A 360-degree video can help customers understand how these elements work together and how to use the product effectively.
- Potential for Reduced Returns: When customers have a more accurate perception of what they are buying, they are less likely to return items due to mismatched expectations, saving you the cost and hassle of processing returns.
- Improved SEO and Visibility: High-quality, engaging content like 360-degree videos can boost your product’s visibility on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, potentially leading to more organic traffic and sales.
To create a 360-degree product video for your Amazon listing, you may need specialized equipment such as a 360-degree camera or software tools to stitch together images or footage. It’s essential to ensure that the video is clear, well-lit and provides an accurate representation of your product.
In summary, 360-degree product videos offer a more immersive and informative shopping experience for customers, helping them make confident purchasing decisions and potentially boosting their sales and brand reputation on e-commerce platforms like Amazon.
